Africa Prime Experiences | Luxury Safaris

Duration 6 Days

Difficulty Challenging

Style Private

Location Tanzania

Overview

The Experience

What this journey is about and what you can expect.

Experience a thrilling 6-day trek up Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, via the scenic Meru Route in Arusha National Park. This adventure offers breathtaking views of lush forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Perfect for those preparing for Mount Kilimanjaro or as a standalone adventure, this trek combines nature, wildlife, and awe-inspiring mountain scenery. Along the way, encounter giraffes, buffalo, and colobus monkeys, culminating in the summit at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) with spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding terrain.

Journey

Day by Day Itinerary

A clear day-by-day breakdown so you know what to expect from start to finish.

Day 1

Arrival

Pick up from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) by Africa Prime Experiences.
Briefing and equipment check.

Stay: Kibo Palace Hotel.

Day 2

Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut Elevation: 1,500m → 2,514m

Distance: ~10 km | Time: 4–6 hours
Zone: Montane Forest Zone
Begin trekking at Momella Gate through lush rainforest.
Spot wildlife including giraffes, buffalo, colobus monkeys, and birds.

Stay: Miriakamba Hut.

Day 3

Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut Elevation: 2,514m → 3,570m

Distance: ~8 km | Time: 3–5 hours
Zone: Montane Forest → Heath & Moorland Zone
Trek through heather and moorland, enjoying views of the ash cone and surrounding valleys.
Optional afternoon hike to Little Meru (3,820m) for acclimatization.

Stay: Saddle Hut.

Day 4

Saddle Hut to Socialist Peak and Back to Miriakamba Hut

Distance: ~18 km round trip | Time: 10–12 hours
Alpine Desert → Heath Zone
Elevation: 3,570m → 4,566m (summit) → 2,514m
Early summit climb to Socialist Peak for sunrise views.
Take in panoramic vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, Great Rift Valley, and Arusha National Park.

Stay: Miriakamba Hut

Day 5

Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate

Distance: ~10 km | Time: 2–4 hours
Zone: Montane Forest Zone
Elevation: 2,514m → 1,500m
Leisurely descent through rainforest to complete the trek at Momella Gate.

Stay: Kibo Palace Hotel.

Day 6

Departure / Optional Extension

Rest and relax after your trek.
Optional Zanzibar beach experience or safari in nearby parks such as:
Tarangire National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Lake Manyara National Park
If no extension, transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight home.

End of Itinerary

What's covered

Included & Excluded

Know exactly what's part of your package so you can plan and budget with confidence.

Included

• Park fees, camping fees & rescue fee 18% VAT on tour fees & services
• Accommodation in tents complete with sleeping mats Sleeping bags (-15°C limit) clients with warmer sleeping bags are advised to bring their own
• Transportation to & from the mountain gate
• Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
• 3 meals daily while on the mountain
• Katadyn filtered water throughout the trek
• Pre & post-trek accommodation in Moshi town on Half Board Basis
• Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by:
• Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA)
• Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
• Tree donation in support of environmental conservation projects
• 2-way airport transfers (1 on arrival, 1 on departure)
• Supplemental oxygen & pulse oximeter

Excluded

• Visa fees
• Tips to mountain crew (see tipping guidelines)
• Items of a personal nature
• Laundry services
• Single supplement request: $100
• Travel insurance (recommended – must cover altitudes of 6,000m and above)
• Spending a night in the crater: $200 per person
• Western Breach approach without a night at the crater camp: $100 per person
• Tanzanian mountain doctor: $200 per group per day
• Portable chemical toilet: $150 per toilet (includes tent & porter)

Investment

2025/2026 Rates

Prices are quoted in USD per person sharing, based on group size. No hidden fees.

Group Size	Mid-Range
2 Travelers	£1,216
4 Travelers	£1,155
6 Travelers	£1,094
8 Travelers	£1,070
10 Travelers	£1,034

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions about this trip.

Where is Mount Meru located?

Mount Meru is situated in Arusha National Park, approximately 1 hour from Arusha town and close to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

How tall is Mount Meru?

Mount Meru rises to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), making it the second-highest mountain in Tanzania and the fifth-highest in Africa.

How many days does the hike take?

Most treks take 3 to 4 days, depending on your pace and chosen itinerary.

What's the summit success rate?

The summit success rate via the Meru Route is approximately 70–80%, depending on fitness, preparation, and acclimatization.

When is the best time to climb?

The driest and most stable months are January–March and June–October. Peak season (July–September) sees larger crowds but offers very reliable weather.

Is it a good acclimatization hike before Kilimanjaro?

Yes! Mount Meru is an excellent warm-up for Kilimanjaro, helping your body adjust to high altitude.

What crew supports me on the mountain?

Each group is supported by English-speaking guides, cooks, and porters: 1 guide per 4 clients, 1 porter per 15 kg of luggage. They set up camps, prepare meals, and carry gear, ensuring your hike is comfortable and safe.

Is airport transfer included?

Yes, we provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for all our package bookings.

Do I need a Visa for Tanzania?

Most travelers need a visa. You can obtain an E-Visa online beforehand or a Visa on Arrival ($50 USD or $100 USD for US citizens). Please check your specific country requirements.

What about dietary requirements?

We cater to all dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal. Please inform us at the time of booking so our chefs can prepare accordingly.

Preparation

Free Guide

Kilimanjaro Gear Guide

Summit success depends on the right gear. Download our comprehensive trekking equipment list.

Download Gear List

6-Day Mount Meru Trek